Top 3 Outfits for Your Job Interview

Congratulations! Your resume stood out from the crowd, and you passed the first round of phone interviews. You've been invited to the in-person interview and you've never been more excited. Landing a new job can be a life-changing event, so you want to do everything possible to make a lasting and positive impression. Wearing the right professional clothing will help you look your best on the big day and give you that extra confidence boost you need to nail those questions. Here are the top three work outfits for women—and some key styling tips—for your upcoming job interview.

#1: Dress Pants and Blouses for Women

When in doubt, you can always be sure that a dependable set of dress pants will be appropriate for your interview. Pick a pair that has neutral or dark tones for a professional edge. For women, dress pants pair well with a freshly ironed blouse, button-up shirt, or printed top. Blazers or formal vests also add a touch of warmth and style, especially if your interview is on a chilly day. There are many styles and cuts of dress pants to suit your fashion preferences. Try on some chino or wool pants in straight fit, slim, or boot cut. A pair of mid-rise ankle pants also matches well with an elegant blouse or tunic on top. Don't forget the icing on the cake: throw on some subtle stud earrings and matching necklace for a complete look.

#2: Dress Pants and Suits for Men

For men, a pair of men's dress pants is a standard requirement for a job interview. This can be worn with a business casual top or integrated with a classic interview suit. Both looks make such a great impression when you walk into the room. Don't worry if you're interviewing for a place that seems casual on a daily basis—you should always dress formally for an interview, out of respect for the establishment. Choose among many styles of men's suits for the right color jacket, shirt, and tie that makes you feel the most confident. Worried about it being too hot for wearing a full suit? The Year'Rounder® suit jacket is designed to suit any season with its sweat shields, full lining, and rear vents. It also just looks great. If the occasion calls for business casual attire, a pair of dress pants, a dress shirt, and necktie are a classic combination—no jacket required.

#3: Cute Work Dresses for Women

Ladies, rejoice! You can look just as put together with less effort when you choose a wear-to-work dress. They are one of the best women's work clothing options because they are simply lifesavers when you're on a time crunch and your go-to white blouse is in the wash. Slip on an elegant Ponte sheath dress with a few accessories, and you're ready to tackle this interview with confidence. When the weather gets cold, a cute sweater dress and long boots are also easy fashion wins for the face-to-face interview. Pick a form-flattering dress that sits just below the knees or a cute maxi dress—whatever suits the occasion! Grab a comfortable pair of pumps or short boots, and you have an effortless yet sharp look that is guaranteed to generate positive vibes.

Styling Tip # 1: Don't Underestimate Your Outerwear

You may be wearing an amazing outfit, but if it's winter or fall, the first thing your interviewer will see is your coat. Pay careful attention to what you wear over your suit or dress because it's just as important. A sleek, well-fitting wool coat is a perfect complement to your black dress slacks and chenille sweater, but an outdated jacket you've kept since middle school will look out of place. Bring in the whole fashion package when you wear a professionally styled coat. For starters, wool jackets are often designed in cuts and colors that are suitable for a more formal setting. The texture and functionality of men's wool coats are also highly valued in the world of business clothing. For whatever coat you pick, remember to incorporate style, timelessness, functionality, and a professional image. Try different styles such as peacoats, trench coats, or an easy-breezy overcoat.

Styling Tip # 2: Wear Nice Shoes

It's easy to focus on everything that goes from your head to your ankles, but what you put on your feet matters—a lot, actually. Fashion experts advise against overly casual or "fun" footwear like sneakers, open-toed sandals, sky-high heels, shimmery shoes, or anything that is dirty or broken in any way. Instead, a pair of sharp-looking flats loafers are both professional and comfortable for long-term wear. Low-heeled pumps are also an excellent choice for a woman's job interview shoe. Men, for a timeless job interview mens dress shoe, look to the classic penny loafer or oxford shoe. These match with practically any formal attire and can last for years with regular care. Just remember to keep these shoes clean and shine them if needed!